Does Adding a Credit Card Improve Your Credit Score?

One of the more confusing aspects of rewards travel is how applying for credit cards affects your credit score. Conventional wisdom has it that applying for more credit cards will negatively affect your credit score, and is somehow frowned upon by lenders and credit providers. But that’s not the case. A strong credit file with many credit accounts and a proven history of on-time payments is exactly what creditors want.

Add Authorized Users to Your Credit Cards, Get Bonus Points or Miles

Sign-up bonuses are a crucial part of the points and miles puzzle, but they’re not the only way of banking a substantial balance of rewards points. Other methods include signing up for regular promotions offered by credit card providers and loyalty programs, taking advantage of generous referral bonuses (which can bring in upwards of 50K points per year), and — on select credit cards — scoring bonus points for adding an authorized user to your account.

Wyndham Earner Business Card Review: An Underrated Powerhouse for Gas and Status

The Wyndham Rewards® Earner℠ Business Card punches above its weight when you consider how much value it brings to the table. With 15,000 annual bonus points, a 10% discount on award bookings, and an excellent 8X earning rate on gas purchases, it more than justifies its $95 annual fee. Plus, you can get the most out of your points by using them for Vacasa vacation rentals. Learn more in our detailed review.

Credit Cards Offering Instant Card Numbers So You Can Start Spending Immediately

Many banks offer immediate access to your new credit card so you can start spending right away, thanks to providing an instant card number on approval. This is helpful when trying to meet a minimum spending requirement for a bonus or if you have an unexpected expense pop up while waiting for your new card to come in the mail. This article covers all of the major banks and shows you your options for each one.

The 5 Best Credit Cards With No Annual Fee and 0% Introductory APR

Credit cards with a 0% introductory APR on purchases or balance transfers are a low-cost option for financing major purchases and offer an alternative to personal loans. But it’s essential to repay the balance on the card before the promotional interest rate expires. If not, you may wipe out any gains you’ve made. Which cards offer the best 0% introductory APR without charging an annual fee? Here are our favorites.

U.S. Bank Altitude® Connect Visa Signature® Card Review: Quality Earnings and an Attainable Bonus

The U.S. Bank Altitude® Connect Visa Signature® Card is a user-friendly option that comes with a generous welcome offer along with practical everyday spending categories. Travel purchases and fuel purchases — which include gas stations and electric vehicle charging — earn 4x points, and grocery purchases get 2x back. Is this the right card for you? Read our Altitude Connect review to find out more.